ap ‧ prove S3 W2 /əˈpruːv/ BrE AmE verb
[ Word Family: adjective : ↑ approving ≠ ↑ disapproving , ↑ approved ; verb : ↑ approve ≠ ↑ disapprove ; noun : ↑ approval ≠ ↑ disapproval ; adverb : ↑ approvingly ≠ ↑ disapprovingly ]
[ Date: 1300-1400 ; Language: Old French ; Origin: aprover , from Latin approbare , from ad- 'to' + probare 'to prove' ]
1 . [transitive] to officially accept a plan, proposal etc:
The conference approved a proposal for a referendum.
2 . [intransitive] to think that someone or something is good, right, or suitable OPP disapprove
approve of
Catherine’s parents now approve of her marriage.
I don’t approve of cosmetic surgery.
• • •
THESAURUS
▪ approve to officially accept a plan, proposal etc:
The Medical Research Council has approved the use of a new drug for breast cancer.
▪ pass to approve a law or proposal, especially by voting:
Many anti-smoking laws have been passed.
▪ ratify to make a written agreement official by signing it:
The treaty was ratified by the Senate in 1988.
▪ rubber-stamp to approve something without really thinking about it – used to show disapproval:
Parliament merely rubber-stamped the president’s decisions.